Final answer:
Burning metal fires are graded as Class D fires, requiring specialized extinguishing agents. Water-based extinguishers are not suitable for these high-temperature combustion events, which often occur in industrial settings.
Step-by-step explanation:
Fires involved with burning metal are graded as Class D fires. These are fires that involve combustible metals such as magnesium, titanium, zirconium, sodium, lithium, and potassium. It is important to note that these types of fires require specialized extinguishing agents that are capable of suppressing the high temperatures of metal fires without reacting violently with the burning metal. For example, traditional water-based extinguishers are not suitable for Class D fires as they can exacerbate the fire or even cause explosions.
To control and extinguish a metal fire, a dry powder extinguishing agent, which is specially formulated for dealing with the high-temperature combustion and the specific metal involved, is often used. Awareness of the proper extinguishing method is critical, especially in settings like industrial processes, waste combustion, and environments where these metals are handled or used.